Developers slated for financial help

Tiffany RayCHICAGO TRIBUNE

The Rolling Meadows City Council said it would provide financial incentives to developers who build on nearly 5 acres of land adjacent to Salt Creek.

The council voted 6-1 to designate the property on the southeast corner of Kirchoff Road and Owl Drive a tax-increment financing district. But aldermen postponed debate over a controversial proposal for the site that includes condominiums, offices and stores.

Wellington Partners has proposed five buildings for the site that would have 164 condominiums, including some senior residences, and about 32,000 square feet of office and retail space.

Neighbors said the proposal for six-story condominium buildings is unacceptable.

"I just can't see walking out in my backyard and seeing a six-story building," said Steve Rybarczyk, who lives on Owl Drive. "Some [homes] are going to lose sunlight."

The proposal also provides insufficient parking space and would limit access to Kirchoff Road for residents of the neighboring Park Meadows condominiums, residents said. The council tabled consideration of the proposal while developers work with the city on the issues.

Ald. Rudolf Balek cast the council's only dissenting vote and said he opposes TIFs because, "They're always being overused."

If the project is approved, construction could begin in spring, said developer Larry DeVito.